Action for Public Transport (N.S.W.) Inc.

NIGHTRIDE NEEDED AT KINGS CROSS

The Kings Cross Police Accountability Community Team (PACT) has added to calls for the NSW Government to provide an after hours NightRide bus service between Kings Cross and the City.

Kings Cross is a 24 hour entertainment zone, with large numbers of tourists and visitors. Many people leave venues after normal public transport closes and some have reported that even taxis will not pick them up in Kings Cross in the early morning, particularly at 3.00am changeover.

Superintendent Mark Murdoch told PACT members that large numbers of people are left stranded in this precinct at night increasing the risks of crime, violence and anti-social behaviour. Residents also face additional noise impacts, because of the trouble visitors face getting out of the area.

The Kings Cross Licensing Accord, City of Sydney, and Kings Cross Police ran a trial "Late Night Transport" service, moving 300 to 400 people each weekend night from Kings Cross to Central Railway Station and Wynyard Bus Terminus. Funded by Kings Cross Liquor Accord, the trial showed that transport is need, but the Accord is unable to permanently fund the bus service.

Police statistics show that crime is concentrated in the entertainment strip, particularly after public transport stops. The Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research recently reported identified that crime and anti-social behaviour are linked with concentrations of liquor outlets.

So far, the Minister for Transport has declined to provide a NightRide service, despite several requests and questions in Parliament. The Government should act, especially as it has designated Kings Cross a major tourism and entertainment precinct.